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Umbilical Hernia

Why Choose Florida Hospital?

An umbilical hernia, a common type of hernia found in infants at birth, occurs when the abdominal lining or abdominal contents protrude near the belly button. This hernia typically affects African American children more frequently than any other group. An umbilical hernia usually heals on its own; however, in adults, most commonly obese people and pregnant women, this type of hernia may require surgery in order to repair the abdominal wall that is allowing this protrusion to take place. Infants suffering with an umbilical hernia are expected to develop a bulge near the belly button and may cry due to this hernia causing swelling, pain, pressure and discomfort. This bulge tends to fluctuate in size, especially when abdominal contents push toward and shift around the belly button. Doctors at Florida Hospital are specialized in screening patients for an umbilical hernia, ordering tests to confirm this type of hernia and are readily available to perform a hernia surgery to repair this rupture. If this hernia causes extreme pain, bleeding, infection, high blood pressure, or any respiratory issues, call 9-1-1 immediately.

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What is an Umbilical Hernia?

An umbilical hernia is one of the most common types of hernias among infants, although obese adults and pregnant women are also prone to developing this rupture underneath the belly button. In this type of hernia, a tear or weakness in the abdominal wall creates an opening where tissue, muscle, and/or the intestine can protrude near the belly button.

An umbilical hernia surgery is required in adults to prevent the risk of strangulation, where the intestine may get stuck in a tear or an opening and this can obstruct blood flow and cause death to this digestive membrane. This hernia is accompanied with pain, aching, swelling, and pressure near the belly button. Common risk factors of an umbilical hernia are obesity, heavy lifting, overexertion, straining while having a bowel movement, continuous coughing and sneezing, and pressure.

Doctors at Florida Hospital are available to discuss details about an umbilical hernia.